PUPILS at Covingham Park Primary School are starting a six-week sword fencing course during physical education lessons this week with the aim of them achieving their British Fencing Association Grade One Award in Foil.

Each week they are learning different aspects of a very physically demanding and mentally challenging sport.

From a class of complete beginners they have already learnt how to stand ‘en guarde', move backwards and forwards and use space to lure their opponents into striking distance so a hit with a lunge can be scored.

Lessons are also focusing on the benefits of 'attacks' and the need for a solid 'defence' to prevent being hit.

As well as the children learning something new, they also all have the opportunity to attend Swindon Fencing Club on a Tuesday evening to continue their development.

Each pupil will receive a letter from the coach giving them four free sessions this year.

Fencing coach Neil Bromley said: “The children have really taken to fencing, and got a great buzz from a different type of physical exercise while learning lots too.

“Fencing is great for all-round fitness, muscle toning, building core strength, coordination and balance.

“As competitors lunge at each other, it helps improve the flexibility in the thighs, hips, glutes, upper back, lower back and shoulders.

“Fencing's unique mix of physical and intellectual stimulation can burn approximately 400 calories per hour so the children certainly get a workout each session.

“Since you need to make lightning-fast decisions, it is also excellent for concentration and focus all of which I think appeals to children of all ages.”

Head Teacher Caroline Polley added: “We are always looking for different sports for the children to experience and fencing fits very well with us wanting to offer a breadth in our subjects.

“It’s great to see how well the children took to the sport and their achievements in such a short space of time. Who knows, it might not be too long before our own Covingham Cavaliers have our first competitive match with another Swindon school.”